Chikasha Poya Exhibit Center

Adventure Calls

Capturing the vibrant spirit of the Chickasaw people, the Chickasaw Cultural Center invites you to explore our array of interactive exhibits at the Chikasha Poya Exhibit Center. Wander through the inspiring Spirit Forest, alive with light, color and sound; or witness a stomp dance demonstration displayed in an interactive, 360-degree format, in which visitors are encouraged to participate. Each stop at this beautiful Native American exhibit center is imbued with our pride, our passion and our excitement to share our culture with you.

Chikasha Poya Exhibit Center

Capturing the vibrant spirit of the Chickasaw people, the Chickasaw Cultural Center invites you to explore our array of interactive exhibits at the Chikasha Poya Exhibit Center. Wander through the inspiring Spirit Forest, alive with light, color and sound; or witness a stomp dance demonstration displayed in an interactive, 360-degree format, in which visitors are encouraged to participate. Each stop at this beautiful Native American exhibit center is imbued with our pride, our passion and our excitement to share our culture with you.

Mosaic Room

The Aaishtaya' (“where our journey begins”) Room features a wall of bright mosaic tiles imported from Scuola Mosaicisti Del Friuli in Spilimbergo, Italy and an etched glass replica of a 1723 deerskin map.

Council House Orientation Theater

In Chickasaw villages, the Council House was the hub of the community. In addition to showcasing an authentic piece of Chickasaw culture, our Council House hosts showings of “Chickasaw Renaissance,” a short film designed to welcome guests to the Chickasaw Cultural Center.

Spirit Forest

Since ancient days, a large part of our people’s cultural and spiritual identity has been tied to finding harmony with the natural world. The Itti' Anonka' Nannakat Oktani (“Spirit Forest”) exhibit recreates this treasured bond and shares it with you through an unforgettable journey.

Exhibit Gallery

The Exhibit Gallery takes you on an adventure through Chickasaw history with Native American interactive stations, reproductions and graphic and text displays.

Removal Corridor

The Removal Hallway and the Stomp Dance areas tie together to tell the story of our people’s ability to express emotion through dance and song. Artwork, sounds and stories will guide you along the difficult route thousands of Native Americans took after President Andrew Jackson passed the Indian Removal Act of 1830.

Stomp Dance

As you circle the blazing sacred fire in this larger-than-life stomp dance, the dancers seem to move with you, creating an interactive display of Chickasaw culture. Live stomp dance demonstrations by tribal dancers can also be seen daily.